Who Should I Start? Sterling Shepard or Pat Bryant

Friday, January 2, 11:40 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Sterling Shepard has been completely phased out of the team's game plan with their WR corps at full strength, putting him on the back burner for fantasy. The 32-year-old was a bigger part of Tampa Bay's offense earlier in the campaign, as the receiving room dealt with a myriad of injuries. However, as veterans Mike Evans (rest) and Chris Godwin Jr., and second-year pro Jalen McMillan have returned to full health, Shepard has faded from the offense. In fact, Shepard has been a healthy scratch over the past few weeks, signaling the team's preference in the starting lineup. The Oklahoma product has been a fine secondary option over the course of his career, but he can be avoided for fantasy purposes in a loaded Bucs' pass-catching unit.

Sunday, February 15, 9:43 AM

Denver Broncos wide receiver Pat Bryant finished his rookie campaign with fewer than 400 yards and only one touchdown, but based on glimpses he showed in two abbreviated playoff appearances, he could see a much larger role in 2026. Having the dubious distinction of exiting both games early with injury, it's difficult to project how much of the game plan would continue to revolve around him, but Bryant touched the ball five times on a total of 12 postseason snaps. The Broncos have been tied to the receiver position in what looks to be a strong incoming draft class, but the only pass catcher currently on the roster who clearly projects ahead of Bryant is 30-year-old Courtland Sutton. While Troy Franklin and Marvin Mims Jr. have both shown flashes at times in their young careers, Bryant seems the most likely to take the next step in 2026 and could be an important weapon for newly elevated offensive coordinator Davis Webb.